5 Signs You Should be Consuming More Protein

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http://www.nashuanutrition.com/blog/2015/04/are-you-consuming-enough-protein/


Protein is important to your health. If you do not consume enough protein, your body suffers. Proteins are the body’s main building blocks. They are important in making skin, muscles, organs and tendons. Proteins are also necessary in making neurotransmitters, enzymes, neurotransmitters and more. Without protein, your life would simply not be the same.

Here are 5 signs that your body is not getting the protein it needs to function properly:

1. Do you crave a lot of sweets? If you suddenly develop a sweet tooth and you never feel like you’ve had enough to eat, you are likely low on protein. One important function of protein is to keep your blood sugar levels steady. When you are lacking protein, there is a good chance that you reach for a piece of candy or a cookie as a quick fix. Instead of reaching for an unhealthy fix, consider reaching for a protein smoothie. We offer a variety of protein smoothies including Protein Wealth Fruit Smoothie. This drink is high in protein and will help put an end to your sweet tooth.
   
2. Have you noticed your hair falling out or thinning? Protein is a key building block for all of the cells in your body — including your hair follicles. Your hair follicles are strong and meant to keep your hair on your head. If you are not getting the appropriate nutrients, you may notice that your hair may start thinning.
3. Do you feel foggy all of the time? If your brain is feeling foggy, a lack of protein may be to blame. Balanced blood sugar levels are a must for staying focused throughout the day. If you are depriving yourself of protein and your glucose levels are fluctuating, you may have some trouble performing your normal daily tasks; such as staying focused in class or getting those numbers to add up in a report for work. A steady stream of carbohydrates is a must-have to help fuel your brain. Consuming protein with your meals can help to time-release carbohydrates to be used as energy opposed to spikes in your energy levels. If you are looking for a boost in your protein intake throughout the day, consider Proti-Boost.
4. Do you feel weak? If you know one thing about protein, it’s the fact that protein is a must-have for strong and healthy muscles. If you do not get enough protein, your muscles may begin to shrink overtime.
5. Do you find yourself feeling sick more often than usual? Protein is a must for a strong immune system. If you catch colds easily, a protein deficiency may be to blame.

How much protein should you be consuming each day? If you are the average person, meaning you aren’t a bodybuilder and do no exercise all that often, it is reasonable to aim for .36 to .6 grams per pound. This means:

• 56-91 grams/day for the average male.
• 46-75 grams/day for the average female.

If your job is demanding on your body or you are very active, you are going to need more protein. Endurance athletes need about .5 to .65 grams of protein per pound per day. Older individuals are also in need of more protein. Daily protein intake should be about .45 to .6 grams per pound.

If you suspect a protein deficiency, it is important to talk to your doctor. Keep in mind that a weakened immune system or hair loss may mean something other than a protein deficiency.

- See more at: http://www.nashuanutrition.com/blog/2015/04/are-you-consuming-enough-protein/#sthash.ONcLlnuP.dpuf

The sweets part interested me. I had never been too much of a sweet eater now, I crave them. I want ice cream every night. I probably ate ice cream twice a year before my DS. For me, it is probably not a protein deficiency. I get about 120 grams every day. It is just an interesting thought on how much our tastes change!